Root Beer from A&W features a rich blend of sassafras and spices, delivering a smooth, creamy texture with a sweet, fizzy finish that perfectly complements any meal.
Equipments
- Beverage dispenser or soda fountain
- Keg or syrup bag-in-box
- CO2 tank
- Carbonator
- Ice bin or ice maker
- Serving cups or mugs
- Stirring spoon (for mixing, if needed)
- Refrigerator or cooler
Ingredients
- 2 quarts (1.9L) water
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) molasses
- 2 teaspoons dried sassafras root
- 1 teaspoon dried sarsaparilla root
- 1/2 teaspoon licorice root
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 vanilla bean (split) or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon dried birch bark (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon star anise
- 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/8 teaspoon wintergreen extract
- 1/8 teaspoon cherry bark (optional)
- Pinch salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Carbonated water
To achieve the authentic flavor of Root Beer from A&W, use a precise blend of dried sassafras root, sarsaparilla root, and licorice root, as these are key to replicating the signature aromatic profile. Granulated sugar combined with molasses provides the necessary sweetness and depth, while spices like allspice, cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon enhance the complexity of the beverage. Incorporate a vanilla bean or extract to add creamy undertones that balance the spice notes. You should ensure the carbonated water is freshly added for the ideal fizzy finish. This copycat Root Beer recipe captures the smooth, creamy texture and sweet fizz that makes A&W's root beer a classic favorite.
Instructions
- Prepare all equipment: beverage dispenser, keg, CO2 tank, carbonator, ice bin, serving cups, stirring spoon, refrigerator.
- Combine water, sugar, and molasses in a large pot.
- Add sassafras root, sarsaparilla root, licorice root, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla bean, birch bark (optional), star anise, coriander seeds, wintergreen extract, cherry bark (optional), and salt to the pot.
- Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Lower heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Let mixture cool slightly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract (if not using vanilla bean).
- Chill the syrup in the refrigerator.
- Mix the root beer syrup with carbonated water to taste (about 1 part syrup to 4–5 parts carbonated water).
- Pour over ice in serving cups or mugs.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Root Beer from A&W copycat recipe combines traditional sassafras and sarsaparilla roots with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to replicate the classic creamy, sweet, and fizzy drink. If you don't have access to dried sassafras root, you can substitute with additional vanilla extract and a small amount of wintergreen extract to maintain the characteristic flavor. When preparing this at home, ensure your carbonated water is fresh and cold for the best fizz and texture; using a soda fountain or carbonator will enhance the carbonation level. Adjust sweetness by fine-tuning the granulated sugar and molasses quantities to suit your taste preferences. Keep your Root Beer chilled and serve it over ice in mugs or cups for an authentic experience you and your guests will enjoy.
Tips
Ensure all equipment like the beverage dispenser and carbonator are clean and functioning properly before beginning. When simmering the syrup, maintain a gentle boil to extract maximum flavor from the roots and spices without burning the mixture. Strain the syrup carefully through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to avoid any gritty texture in your drink. You should mix the syrup with carbonated water just before serving to maintain the fizzy, fresh taste essential to authentic A&W Root Beer.
Nutritions
Root Beer from A&W contains a significant amount of granulated sugar and molasses, contributing to its high calorie content primarily from simple carbohydrates. The natural spices such as sassafras root, sarsaparilla root, and various aromatic herbs add negligible calories but provide antioxidants and flavor compounds. Carbonated water adds no calories or nutrients, making the sugar content the main nutritional consideration. You should enjoy this beverage in moderation due to its sugar levels, especially if monitoring your caloric or carbohydrate intake.
Storage
Store the prepared root beer syrup in an airtight container in your refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent contamination. Avoid freezing the syrup as this can alter its flavor and consistency. When ready to serve, mix the chilled syrup with carbonated water and keep your beverage dispenser or soda fountain clean to ensure your root beer tastes smooth and fresh.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment with honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar to give your root beer a richer, more complex sweetness. Using fresh vanilla beans instead of extract will enhance the aroma and depth of flavor. For a spicier twist, try increasing the amount of star anise or adding a small piece of fresh ginger during simmering. If you prefer a caffeine kick, steep some black tea leaves along with the herbs before straining.
Allergies
Root Beer from A&W contains several natural spices and flavorings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and star anise, which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The presence of vanilla and molasses also poses a risk for those with specific food allergies or sensitivities. Ensure you review all ingredients carefully to avoid potential allergic responses when enjoying your drink.
Why this recipe?
A&W's Root Beer menu is beloved for its rich, creamy flavor, crafted from a secret blend of natural herbs and spices that provides a nostalgic taste experience. The carbonation is perfectly balanced, enhancing the unique sweetness without overpowering the palate. You can recreate this classic flavor at home, making the copycat recipe a rewarding project for root beer enthusiasts seeking authentic taste and quality. Trying your own version allows for customization and freshness that matches the original A&W Root Beer's iconic appeal.